By Daniel Steffe, on Tuesday 28 July 2009Most tourist attractions are just that, tourist attractions. Their beauty, grandeur, elegance, history and experience are often marred by too many people and that typical holiday vibe that emits from them. Thankfully, the vibe at the mesmerizing temples of Angkor in Siem Reap is very different. In the peak season, they are busy with people, but a lack of clunky additions, modern food vendors or westernized ‘experience’ packages, makes them feel more natural, more real. This experience is perfectly reflected by the Angkor Palace Resort & Spa, a well-equipped venue 20 minutes from the temples of Angkor, in the heart of town.
It’s only ten minutes from Siem Reap International Airport and upon arrival you are not thrust out of Cambodia and into this faraway fairy land, as is typical with most resorts, but instead guided into an elegant extension of the region. A welcome drink and traditional scarf are offered as you begin to notice the understated features of
resort. Interestingly, the owner of the establishment, a local, is the architect and mastermind behind the resort’s perfectly Cambodian persona. Your first taste of which is in the main lobby which is bold, but simple and intriguing, yet calm.
The rooms also relate to the intimate local culture. They feel very homely, yet manage to fi t in all the creature comforts of home, including complimentary internet. And the rooms overlooking the pool provide the added benefit of one of Asia’s most sensual sunsets. Rooms range from Deluxe to a One Bedroom Suite, each adorned with furniture created by the owner/ architect, the pride of which is the lounge chairs that are carved out of local wood and reflect a traditional elephant harness. It’s a subtle, yet clever touch. There are also eight private Villas if you really want to splash out.
Facilities on offer here are typical of a resort of this nature, but are executed with a touch of local charm. The pool is adorned with a swim-up bar, there is a tennis court, driving range and a simple fitness centre. However, the majority of the local charm is reserved for the spa, which offers a traditional Khmer massage. Thanks to the countries troubled past, the massage is not as popular as its Thai cousin, but is something that should be experienced. It has certain similarities but demonstrates a slightly gentler touch. After a hard day temple hunting it’s a great way to be treated like the kings who built them.
Cambodian delights and a selection of western fare make up the menu of the resort’s main restaurant. A must try is the Royal Khmer Cuisine menu, available upon request. It’s a seven course event that showcases
the best local dishes. It’s derived from a traditional royal menu and is an experience unto its own. It’s fitting in the surroundings and a perfect way to feel like the royalty who govern this charming part of Asia.
Although it has the stamp of a Summit Group resort, the Angkor Palace Resort & Spa is a local family business, with a genuinely local experience. It’s the only five star resorts that is designed and owned by a Cambodian. So, if you’re coming to Cambodia for an escape that will allow you to experience true Cambodian culture, then this resort is nearly as grand as the temples that surround it.
